Why A Tidy Garden Might Just Speed Up Your Sale

All too often we spend so much time sprucing up the inside of our house for a viewing that we forget about the garden, especially if the weather is a little inclement. This can have a huge impact on how quickly your home sells. Buyers want the full package, and the garden plays a big role in this.

Regardless of whether your garden is small or large, it’s important you present it in a favourable light. As long as it’s neat and tidy at the very least – no one will be looking for Chelsea Flower Show standards of horticultural excellence – this will allow prospective buyers to see its potential, and hence increase your chances of landing a sale.

Image by Alan Cleaver

Tidy Up

First impressions count. If a prospective buyer arrives at your home and is greeted by an untidy front drive, overgrown weeds and unkempt grass, then they’re not going to get a good initial feeling for the place.

It could also lead them to believe that they would have a lot of work to do on the property. Before viewings, sweep any litter or debris away from the entrance and give the lawn (if you have one) a trim. Likewise, tidy up things like weeds and children’s toys in your back garden.

Image by gb packards

Plants and Flowers

Plants are one of the first things that people notice in a garden, so having some attractive, well presented and eye-catching ornamentals in yours is a great way to impress prospective buyers. They’ll draw attention to your garden and add colour and texture. According to Homebase’s survey, the top three garden flowers that can sell your property are roses, lavender and fuchsia.

Image by Rosemary

Seclusion and Security

One of the main reasons why people want a garden is that they provide a space in which to relax and get out of the house, particularly in the spring and summer. Sunbathing is a favourite garden pastime amongst Brits (when it’s actually warm enough), but most of us would prefer it if our neighbours couldn’t snoop on us. Growing hedges or trees is a simple way to create secluded spots in your garden and block out nosy neighbours, while also adding further greenery.

Gardens are also significant from the point of view of security. When buyers are visiting your house, ensure that any back doors or gates appear secure. Many men specifically look for a shed when selecting a new home, as they provide both a secure storage space for garden tools and a private area for hobbies. A shed will certainly add some value and character to your property, especially if it doesn’t have a garage.

Image by crabchick

Features

Features have become increasingly popular in garden design. As well as adding a bit of modern sophistication and variety to your space, they can have functional purposes.

Ponds, for example, are a good method of natural pest control since they attract creatures such as toads and frogs that eat small insects.

Garden furniture is a particularly popular feature for buyers who want a space for summer entertaining and outdoor dining, but who can’t afford to upsize or build a conservatory. Having a paved or decked area in your garden also creates an illusion or more space.

Image by Geograph

Article by Joseph Rutter

Bonus Tips

Vegetable patches are in big demand nowadays, as more people look to save money, help the environment and experience the Good Life. They require constant work, though, so be prepared.